An updated form and new permitting steps are part of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s (PA DEP) revised process for joint permit applications.
As of July 1, the Environmental Assessment form now includes the following modules:
- Module 1: Project summary
- Module 2: Resource identification and characterization
- Module 3: Identification and description of potential project impacts
- Module 4: Mitigation plan
The updated form is new to both regulators reviewing permits and those requesting permits for development projects. RETTEW has in-house experts who fully understand the details of this form, including both the investigations and documentation required, and know how to submit all necessary information in a timely manner.
The aquatic resource function and values are now to be included with the rapid assessment protocols, and documentation submitted with joint permit applications.
Aquatic resources include wetlands, rivers, streams, and lakes.
Significant revisions to the aquatic resources assessments include a clarification of “intermittent watercourse,” new drainage area cutoff measurements, and updated wetland classifications. The review also includes much standardization in protocols, updated indices, and details on scoring to use in documentation.
Given the newness of both the updated form and the protocols, permit review times will likely lengthen a bit until the new procedures are practiced and familiar.
If you’re unsure if your project requires these updated environmental steps for Joint Permit applications, please reach out and RETTEW’s environmental experts will evaluate for you! Call 1-800-738-8395 and ask for Grif Jones.